On average, a high school dropout costs $127,000 in community support services over their lifetime. This means the 137 students who dropped out of Brunswick County schools in 2010 will cost taxpayers $17,399,000.
“Keeping kids in schools benefits everyone and, therefore, is everyone’s responsibility,” said Joan Madsen, chair of the Community in Schools’ Board of Directors. “Our Dropout Prevention Program is critical to the success of our students, their families and Brunswick County.”

The Aug. 28 blood drive hosted by Shallotte Masonic Lodge 727 resulted in 25 units of blood collected. Among those donating were several individuals donating blood for the first time.
The blood received at the drive was immediately typed and underwent a battery of tests in Red Cross laboratories. The blood then became available to help patients in area hospitals. Because a unit of blood can be separated into its various components, one donation can impact as many as three lives.

Leland upcoming programs and eventsTrunk or Treat
Want to take your kids trick or treating in a safe, fun environment? Then Leland’s Trunk or Treat event is for you. Businesses and community organizations have been asked to decorate their trunks and pass out goodies. There will be prizes for the most impressive displays.
Northwest District Park (Andrew Jackson Highway) from 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27. Set-up is from 3-4 p.m. This is a free event.CPR certification class

Wooden boats of all makes and sizes will be on display at the Old Yacht Basin in Southport during the third annual Southport Wooden Boat Show from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29. Admission is free.
Visitors can meet and talk with the wooden boat makers and owners and vote for their favorite entrant for the People’s Choice Award. The nauti-kids events return and all little sailors can build their own boats and test their sea-worthiness. Face painting, tattoos, knot-tying skills return and, new this year, the Turtle Man, will keep them busy.